A highlight of my stay was the chance to celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, Italian style. I have long thought that this strong, silent hero of the New Testament gets far less attention than he deserves. But in Rome, I did as the Romans do and celebrated him with enthusiasm.

First, of course, I honored him by indulging in more than one of the zeppole di San Giuseppe — a pastry made in his honor. I do not know the history of this sweet tradition, but that did not prevent me from following it with enthusiastic respect.

Second, I celebrated at a lively street festival. Although I lived in the shadows of St. Peter’s Basilica, my local parish in Rome was dedicated to St. Joseph. Our parish festival was particularly exuberant. A traditional procession of a floral-wrapped statue wended its way through the crowd, and joyful noises filled the evening air.

Third, and most personal to me, was the fact that St. Joseph’s Day is also the day when Italians celebrate Father’s Day. That explained why I sent my dad a Father’s Day card in March — along with some Italian chocolate I knew he would like. The fact that he saved the card and the evidence of the long-gone chocolate warmed my heart and made me glad I braved the unique chaos of a crowded Roman post office to send it to him.

I like the link between St. Joseph and Father’s Day. Sometimes, I think that good fathers also get far less attention than they deserve. Fathers who are careless, absent or worse get attention, while those who live their vocation well are often, like St. Joseph, not noticed quite as much.

Joseph was asked to undertake a challenge he did not fully comprehend. Thanks to all those dads who face difficult challenges they do not understand and bear their struggles with strength, trust and patient endurance. Joseph cared for his beloved during the months of her unexpected pregnancy. Thanks to all those dads who care for the mothers of their children, especially when the circumstances are most difficult.

Joseph practiced his faith through his life of prayer and by following religious traditions with fidelity. Thanks to all those dads who, through their example, give their children the precious bequest of faith.

Joseph was a carpenter and made his living with manual labor that was his art and trade. Thanks to all those dads who work long, hard hours to support their families, contribute to their communities and glorify God through their work.

Joseph loved and honored Mary. Thanks to all those dads who give their children a priceless gift when they love and honor their mother.

Joseph died the holiest of deaths. Thanks to all those dads who, as they prepare for their own deaths, leave a final witness of faith, hope and love to their families. My own dad finished his journey through this life. I can no longer send him a card or candy as I once did. But I can still offer him my thanks on Father’s Day. And, in a particular way, I am thankful that Dad saved an old card and a crinkled candy wrapper, reminding me to be grateful for the quiet way he walked with me.